Story perspectives

NATO Shifts Command to European Allies Amid War Planning

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

NATO will transfer leadership of Joint Force Commands in Norfolk, Naples, and Brunssum to European allies, increasing European responsibility in conventional war planning.
The United States will retain overall command through the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich.
The changes include British control of Norfolk and a German-Polish leadership arrangement in Brunssum.
The shift will occur gradually in line with existing personnel rotations.

History

Historical Context

NATO's strategic shift began at the 2002 Prague Summit, leading to a reorganization of its military structure to address new security threats. In 2010, NATO established Joint Force Commands in Norfolk, Naples, and Brunssum, emphasizing European defense capabilities. The recent leadership transition to British and German-Polish control marks a significant move towards a more autonomous European defense posture within NATO's framework.

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Story summary

NATO will transfer leadership of Joint Force Commands in Norfolk, Naples, and Brunssum to European allies, increasing European responsibility in conventional war planning.
The United States will retain overall command through the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich.
The changes include British control of Norfolk and a German-Polish leadership arrangement in Brunssum.
The shift will occur gradually in line with existing personnel rotations.

1 / 2